Retaining walls are vital on properties where there’s a risk of the earth moving, causing damage to buildings, landscaping, and living areas outdoors. Retaining walls not only serve functional purposes but also add to the yard’s aesthetics. You have two options for materials to build landscaping retaining walls – block and natural stone. What’s the difference between the two?
Comparing Block and Natural Stone Retaining Walls for Your Landscaping Project
Landscaping walls include seat walls, retaining walls, and aesthetic accents. The materials used around your yard play a role in determining the right materials for your retaining wall design.
For example, if you have natural stone on your property, use natural stone for your retaining wall. This keeps your yard looking consistent.
If you don’t have natural materials, you can choose block pavers or natural stone. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore them in detail.
What are the Pros & Cons of Natural Stone Retaining Walls?
Natural stone is a high-quality building material. It is often used in landscape design. It helps create beautiful stone block walls that improve outdoor spaces.
Retaining wall stones are available in various forms, from limestone to granite, travertine, and many more. Each type of natural stone has its own unique look and texture. This adds interest to landscaping projects. It also makes stone a great choice for building beautiful retaining walls.
However, natural stone is an expensive material and adds significantly to your project costs compared to concrete retaining wall blocks. Some types of natural stone are more expensive than others; for instance, travertine is more affordable than limestone.
Labor costs are also higher for installing natural stone, which also has limitations on installation compared to concrete blocks. Using natural stone in applications where the retaining wall is short and stretches over shorter distances is better. Professional installation is a must.
Pros
- It gives the landscape a natural look and feel.
- Suitable for rustic and modern homes.
- Provides a more pleasing natural aesthetic compared to the uniform look of pavers or blocks.
- Professionals can fit the stone into a wall without using mortar or connections.
Cons
- More expensive than concrete blocks.
- Increased installation costs compared to concrete blocks.
- Not ideal for retaining walls higher than three feet.
- If you use mortar in the wail, it may require replacement due to wear over time.
What are the Pros & Cons of Block Retaining Walls?
Manufactured concrete block pavers are becoming popular for retaining walls in landscaping projects. These concrete wall blocks are available in various colors and textures, providing versatility for any landscaping installation.
Pros
- Affordable installation compared to natural stone.
- Suitable for building walls over 3 feet in height.
- Ideal for use over long distances.
- A larger variety of colors and textures compared to natural stone.
- Heavy compared to natural stone and less easy to damage.
- Allows for integration of lighting fixtures into the retaining wall.
Cons
- It cannot replicate the look of natural stone.
- Higher costs for materials but cheaper installation costs.
- Limitations on creating turns in the wall along sharp radii.
Block vs Natural Stone Retaining Walls
It’s important to plan properly for the installation of any retaining wall system. Without correct planning, you expose the project to multiple points of failure. Failing to plan, prepare the site, and install the stone correctly results in a leaning wall.
To build a strong, lasting retaining wall, you need to pay close attention to detail. It is not enough to just stack the stones and level the wall. Much of the success in building any type of retaining wall relies on the hidden design features in its construction.
Typically, retaining walls utilize a stone foundation buried underground level. The backfill for the wall determines whether the wall leans or remains upright. This becomes more of a problem as the height of the wall increases. Ensure you hire professional installers to prevent the wall from collapsing in the future.
Antler Country Landscaping Omaha
Antler Country Landscaping was incorporated in 1997 and over the years has grown to offer professional landscape services, lawn care, and outdoor living spaces. Our mission is to enhance your outdoor experience. Contact us to learn more about our Omaha landscaping services.